And the Winners Are - The Official Magazine of Hardware Association Ireland - The Hardware Journal
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November/December 2019
The Official Magazine of Hardware Association Ireland
And the
Winners
Are ...
Industry Awards take centre stage
www.thehardwarejournal.ie
Left Panel: Typography
Right Panel: Cherished Gold
Surround Wall: Urban White
SIGNATURE
COLLECTION
Inspired by design,
designed to inspire.
m
es
sa
ge
fro
As the evenings draw in and we Having
m
are in the crucial countdown to squeezed into
Christmas, we are looking forward a few sessions
to hopefully a busy season and 2020 the calibre of tutors is
th
approaching fast. exceptional, and there is
Soundings from the marketplace are mixed a high level of networking
eC
- while consumer sentiment is dented, the Q3 amongst attendees, learning
figures for the Business Index show a growth in the from real life experiences.
market of 4% and at an anecdotal level most members The spring 2020 schedule is on
spoken to are quietly confident about the next few months. page 39, book early. We have taken
EO
While Brexit has been kicked down the road for another little members` feedback on board and we will
while, business is simply getting on with it. be introducing employee wellness training in
In our pre-budget submission, along with other like-minded member 2020.
associations we put together a suite of suggestions to mitigate its Recruitment of staff is a key challenge for all
possible impact. at present. On page 30 Aoife Kinsella outlines the
To date in the recent budget the only proposal taken up by the Dept benefits of Hardware Jobs - www.hardwarejobs.ie, the
of Finance was that of extending the Help to Buy Incentive Scheme. only dedicated site for the industry.
Still, the other proposals on retrofitting, lowering VAT and stimulating I am delighted to confirm the establishment of the member
the housing sector are not timebound and can still be implemented services subcommittee. The subcommittee will advise the HAI
in a few months. executive team on policies and future plans and guide how HAI can
Last month we met our colleagues in BMF and BHETA and as an best serve our growing membership. Subcommittee members are
organisation we are looking at taking an active role in the sector on a drawn from all sectors rural and urban, large and small - see article
European level. on page 37.
We have a really enlightening calendar of events for 2020. I hope We have a focus on hand and power tools in this edition as well as
that all members attend what will be an extremely interesting series ironmongery, security and fasteners & fittings.
of regional conferences next year beginning with Citywest Dublin on CPL Fuels and Rooney’s Homevalue are profiled. Having worked
February 25th Limerick on April 28th and finally Sligo on September with Rooney’s in a previous role, I can attest to their business
23rd. We have a great line up of speakers on compelling and relevant acumen and customer focus and they are the nicest team of people
topics. We are scheduling plenary and break-out sessions with you could meet.
member networking opportunities. Save the dates. On page 41 we welcome an article from Andrea Carroll in SEAI
The ability to interpret trends in the marketplace, to change and detailing their training workshops for driving out energy costs. Also,
remain agile is a key success factor in any business. In the field Susannah Hewson shares some tips on improving your customer
at the moment is a survey of 1000 consumers. We have engaged experience and Ian Lawlor gives his opinion on a solution to the
Core Research to delve into their purchasing habits and motivations housing problem.
on home improvement. I am really looking forward to the results As award season is upon us, HAI would like to congratulate the
which we will share when ready. It will partly complement a study hosts, participants and winners. Acknowledging excellence in
undertaken in 2018. achievement is a positive factor in promoting the industry.
We also have a project underway to assess the size of the sector - In conclusion I would like to take this opportunity to wish each of you
we are using source data from the CRO to get a reliable and detailed a successful winter and Christmas Trading period and to thank you
picture of the scale of the sector and its contribution to the public purse for your support throughout 2019.
and employment. Spoiler alert, it may be a lot bigger than you think!
Investing in people through training is also a key success factor.
It is good to see so many members looking at upskilling as an
investment. I am delighted to say that this autumn’s training Martin Markey
programme in the HAI offices was the best attended in years. Chief Executive Officer - HAI
November/December 2019
3
contents
FRONT COVER:
And the winners are...Industry
Awards take centre stage.
Blackchurch Business Park, Naas Road,
Rathcoole, Co. Dublin
t +353 1 298 0969
30
e info@hardwareassociation.ie
w www.hardwareassociation.ie
news
@hardwareassoc
ISSN 2009-5481
Published by: Hardware Association Ireland
8 Octabuild Excellence Awards 2019 in words and pictures.
Editor: Jim Copeland,
editor@hardwareassociation.ie
10 Grafton Merchanting ROI rebrands to Chadwicks Group.
Editorial/Feature Contributor: Aoife Kinsella,
Aoife@hardwareassociation.ie
14 Five-Star stores at the United in Excellence Awards.
Advertising Manager: Jim Copeland,
jim@hardwareassociation.ie
20 Expert Hardware Retail Awards Winners Announced.
Design and Production: Stephen Broad, ConceptRoom,
regulars
stephen@conceptroom.co.uk
Printers: GPS Colour Graphics Ltd, Belfast.
Distribution: MMS Mailing Services, Dublin.
3 A MEssAgE frOM thE CEO Martin Markey introduces the latest issue of
ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: The Hardware Journal.
To advertise in The Hardware Journal
and reach the key decision makers
34 gOlf sOCiEty A look at the results of our two recent Golf Society
outings.
in the industry please contact Jim
Copeland at 01-298 0969;
features
email jim@hardwareassociation.ie
© 2019 All editorial contents and all advertisments prepared
by the publishers and Hardware Association Ireland 30 hArDWArE JOBs An update on HAI’s job board website for the
HAI can accept no responsibility for the accuracy of contributors’ articles hardware sector.
or statements appearing in this publication and any view or opinions
expressed are not necessarily those of HAI, save where indicated. No
responsibility for loss or distress occasioned to any person acting or 32 glOBAl Diy sUMMit Our third and final look at this year’s Global DIY
refraining from acting as a result of the material in this publication Summit.
can be accepted by HAI, authors, contributors, editor or publishers. The
publication of advertisements does not constitute any endorsement
by HAI, authors, contributors, editor or publishers of the products 37 MEMBEr sErViCEs sUBCOMMittEE A look at the findings and agreed
advertised. Readers should take specific advice when dealing with actions to be taken following the recent Member Services Meeting.
specific situations.
November/December 2019
4
24
profiles
24 stOrE PrOfilE: rOONEy’s hOMEVAlUE
The Hardware Journal is given a guided tour of
Rooney’s Homevalue’s new-look store as they
discuss their successes to date.
28 sUPPliEr PrOfilE: CPl fUEls
The Hardware Journal talks to Niall McGuinness,
Managing Director of CPL Fuels, about the changes
and challenges facing the solid fuel industry.
market intelligence
6 hAi BUsiNEss iNDEX The latest HAI Business Index
results for Q3 2019.
business support
40 CUstOMEr EXPEriENCE In her third and final article
Susannah Hewson offers The Hardware Journal readers
tips for a Customer Experience focus. 28
41 sEAi The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland advise on
How to make an Energy Smart Business.
42 hOUsiNg CZAr In the wake of this year’s uneventful COMMERCIAL
Budget Ian Lawlor offers his recommendations on how to FEATURES
manage housing demands.
training 43 TOOLS
A look at the latest product and industry news in
the Tools sector.
38 ClAssrOOM trAiNiNg A review of HAI’s Autumn 2019 47 IRONMONGERY
training, and a first look at our Spring 2020 schedule. A collection of global industry trends in the
Ironmongery sector, plus news from some of the
classified ads top brands in the sector.
52 FASTENERS AND FIXINGS
Recent trends in the Fixings and Fasteners market.
58 A sElECtiON Of ClAssifiED ADs
November/December 2019
5
Market Intelligence
BUsiNEss iNDEX -
QUArtEr 3 2019 Branches Profiled
rEsUlts
192 member branches are included in the HAI Business Index. 36%
43% 64%
57%
Member firms showed an average 4% increase year on year for Q3. Rural Urban
The year on year rise for Q3 peaks among urban member groups.
The monthly moving average for Q1 is 102%, and the Q3 monthly
149Member Branches included in Index
192
moving average is largely consistent across member groups. 53%
Number of Employees
22% of member firms offer agricultural supplies (all located outside 42%
Dublin) - rising to 51% of rural members. Agricultural supplies 29%
35%
accounted for 20% of Q.3 turnover (for those members who offer 18%
23%
same).
How to get involved < 10 10-15 >15
The more retailers and merchants involved in contributing to the
Business Location
index, the more robust the data. All raw data is kept confidential..
If you agree to participate in the monthly business index, you will
receive an email from Behaviours and Attitudes, our research
partner, once a quarter (usually at the start of the second week), 15%
12 18
38%
40
18%
asking for several pieces of information that will form the
benchmark survey: 29%
30%
UÊ ÕLiÀÊvÊi«Þiià Dublin Rest of Leinster Munster Connacht / Ulster
UÊ V>ÌÊvÊLÕÃiÃÃ
UÊ 7 >ÌÊÌÞ«iÊvÊ>Ài>ÊÞÕÀÊLÕÃiÃÃÊ«iÀ>ÌiÃÊ]Ê°i°ÊÌÊ}iÌÊ>Ê Monthly Business Index: % change in revenue from 2018 to 2019
urban/rural split
UÊ Õ>ÊÃ>iÃÊÌÕÀÛiÀÊiÃÃÊ6/®ÊvÀÊÞÕÀÊLÕÃiÃÃÊvÀÊÓä£nÊ
21% 21%
broken down by month 16%
18%
14%
UÊ ->iÃÊÌÕÀÛiÀÊ«iÀÊÌ ÊvÀÊÓä£ 2019
8%
Once this benchmark is complete, you will only be asked for +
one piece of information each quarter thereafter, sales turnover -
per month for the quarter. Please call 01 298 0969 or email 2018
Jan Feb Mar April May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec
jim@hardwareassociation.ie for more information and to
participate.
Quarterly
MonthlyBusiness
BusinessIndex:
Index:Q3 2019 v Q3
vs 2018
What our members say YTD 2015 YTD 2014
Padraic Rogers, Owner Topline Rogers, Ballymote, Co. Sligo
“We at Topline Rogers are finding Hardware Association Ireland’s
4%
business index a great help to our business. We are finding it great
being able to compare our business performance against people 28%
in our region with a similar size business, it’s a great help. It helps
us plan and project for where our business is going. It’s very timely
for our industry, pity it didn’t happen years ago!” +9%
+1% +1% +4 %
Stephen Blewitt, General Manager Agribusiness, Aurivo
“The benefits to our business are: Dublin Rest of Leinster Munster Connacht / Ulster
1. With 35 retail outlets spread geographically across eight
counties and three provinces, we find the breakdown of
regions very useful in the report.
2. To be the best, you need to compare yourself to the industry,
and the monthly benchmarks help us decipher the areas we
are over or underperforming in versus the industry.
3. The fact it is completely anonymous gives us the confidence +6% 4%
+1% +3% +7% +7% -2% +7%
to be totally open with the figures we provide.” Urban Rural Single Branch Multi-branch 15
Source: B&A 2019.
Source: B&AData
2015. collection from
Data collection from192
149HAI Member
HAI Member Branches.
branches
November/December 2019
6
News & Products
glENNON BrOthErs WiN ‘sOftWOOD
trADEr Of thE yEAr’ AWArD
Glennon Brothers have won the ‘Softwood Trader of the Year’
Award in London, the Timber Trade Journal’s (TTJ) most coveted
award. The TTJ Awards are widely seen as the most prestigious
in the timber sector.
The 23rd TTJ Awards took place at Hilton Bankside Hotel,
London and were open to companies across the UK and Ireland,
to vote for their choice of ‘Best in Class’ timber supplier.
Glennon Brothers is the first ever home grown timber supplier
to win the award.
Glennon Brothers were also one of only three finalists selected
for the ‘Smart Manufacturing’ Award. The £14 million biomass
Combined Heat & Power (CHP) plant, was recognised as an
investment project that has led to a significant improvement in
production efficiency. Completed in 2018 in the Troon facility Pictured at the awards representing Glennon Brothers from left to right:
in Scotland, the plant produces 2.5MW of electrical power, Gary Neville, Gary Sowerby, Paul Treacy, Pat Glennon, Scott Shiells, Zoe
sufficient to supply the entire site, with surplus energy being Lyons (Guest Speaker), Mike Glennon, Damien Cross and Tom Eagling.
transferred to the UK national grid.
Mike Glennon, joint Managing Director of Glennon Brothers like to say a big thank you for your business.”
said; “We are absolutely thrilled to win the prestigious Pat Glennon, joint Managing Director of Glennon Brothers said;
Softwood Trader of the Year Award, particularly in such a highly “This win is recognition of the hard work and effort put in by
competitive market. I’d like to sincerely thank our customers the people working in Glennon Brothers. We are very fortunate
for voting for Glennon Brothers, and for their continued support to have such a great team. Thanks to everyone in the business,
and faith in us. Over 500 families in the UK and Ireland, depend who strive to deliver high quality products and excellent
on Glennon Brothers for their livelihood. On their behalf, I would customer service from forest to front door.”
BArlEystONE donation towards the care of sick children and their families,
whilst providing a fun product for children”.
“The play sand is produced in our factory in Co. Cavan and has
lAUNCh NEW been designed, manufactured and bagged in our own facility.
We are very proud to say this Play Sand is Guaranteed Irish”
JACk & Jill
added Chris.
Barleystone Paving will donate 50% of the manufacturer`s
profits of each Play Sand Bag sold to their merchants
fOUNDAtiON throughout the country directly to The Jack & Jill Children’s
Foundation. Aoife Gavin, Marketing Manager of O’Reilly Group
iNitiAtiVE
added “We are absolutely delighted to be supporting the Jack
& Jill Children’s Foundation this year. The funds raised by
our donations from the sale of
the Play Sand Bag initiative will
Barleystone Paving, part of the O’Reilly Group based in
provide much needed nursing
Co. Cavan, are proud to announce the release of their new
and respite support for sick
fundraising initiative in conjunction with The Jack & Jill
children and their families. The
Children’s Foundation. They have launched a new Guaranteed
thought that every ¤16 raised
Irish Play Sand Bag, which will raise much needed funds for
equates to ONE HOUR of
the foundation this summer.
home nursing care for a
The Play Sand Bags will be available through Barleystone
Jack & Jill child is what
Paving stockists and merchants throughout the country.
attracted us this year to
It is a clean and safe children’s play sand available in a colourful
this amazing charity.
20kg bag perfect for children’s sand pits and will provide hours
That’s how we came to
of fun. Chris O’Reilly, Sales Manager at Barleystone developed
the slogan on this year`s
the product from initial product development – right through
bag – every child at play
to stocking the product throughout the country. Chris said
will help another family
“Barleystone / Jack & Jill Play Sand Bags are now available
live better each day.
nationwide and are an amazing way for consumers to make a
November/December 2019
7
News & Products
tElfOrDs POrtlAOisE
WiNs NAtiONAl titlE
Telfords Portlaoise is the national Builders Merchant of the Year The Octabuild Awards, which have been acknowledging
for 2019. It has won both the National and Leinster awards in the best in the Builders Merchant trade for 35 years, were
the Octabuild Builders Merchant Excellence Awards 2019. revamped for 2019 with a renewed focus on excellence. This
is to better reflect the modern builders merchant sector in
The Octabuild Builders Merchant Excellence Awards 2019 were terms of business management, customer service, sales and
presented on Thursday 7th November at a gala event in the marketing, innovation, leadership, diversity, partnership and
Aviva Stadium in Dublin. The 250+ guests included shortlisted communication.
merchants and representatives of the builders merchant
trade throughout the country. The event was hosted by the Commenting on the quality of the entries, Chair of the
eight Octabuild members, Dulux, Glennon Brothers, Gyproc, independent Judging Panel, Liam O’Gorman, said: “It is
Instantor, Irish Cement, Kingspan Insulation, Tegral Building clear that the industry in which today’s builders merchants
Products and Wavin. operate has evolved hugely and that merchants have
led the way in embracing this changed landscape. More
This is the third occasion that Telfords has been the national sophisticated business systems, an enhanced skill base and a
winner since these prestigious awards were first presented in keen focus on the environment, health & safety and assistance
1986. It won the national award in 2001 and again in 2007. for the local community feature strongly across the country and
Telfords was established in Portlaoise in 1990 but the Telford is highly commendable.”
business dates back to 1890 when its first store opened in
Mountrath. Octabuild Chairman, Mark Filgate said: “It’s important
for Octabuild that the Awards highlight to the building
According to the independent judging panel Telfords Portlaoise and construction industry the excellence of Irish builders
is an incredibly impressive and commercial store. It is very merchants. We are delighted with the enthusiastic response to
professionally managed using live trading and margin mix data. the new style awards this year where merchants from all over
The store is very innovative and not afraid to embrace change. the country have put themselves and their teams forward to
The employee share scheme is highly innovative and the showcase what’s excellent in the industry.”
intense focus on health and safety standards is market leading.
Overall the judges were really impressed with the store, its
systems, customer service initiatives, strong health and safety
ethos, promotions and community involvement, all led by an
incredibly impressive and professional team. In addition to
Telfords Portlaoise, the other award winners are:
Award winners list:
Connacht/Ulster Regional Award: Ganly’s Athlone
Munster Regional Award: Cork Builders Providers, Togher
Excellence in Business Management: Chadwicks, Naas
Excellence in Customer Service: Grahams of Monaghan
Excellence in Sales & Marketing: Ganly’s Athlone
Excellence in Community Outreach: Wallace’s Homevalue,
Wellingtonbridge
Excellence in Sustainable Business: Ganly’s Longford
Rising Star Award: Ross Fagan, Chadwicks Lucan
Octabuild Supporting Irish Award, sponsored by
Guaranteed Irish: Cork Builders Providers, Togher
Winner of Leinster & National Awards
Lifetime Achievement Award: Jerry Maher, DPL Group Ltd Liam McEvoy, Telfords Portlaoise, and Mark Filgate, Chairman Octabuild.
November/December 2019
8
News & Products
Lifetime Achievement Award Excellence in Business Management Excellence in Customer Service winner
L-R Octabuild Board member, Michael O’Donohoe winner Heather Fitzpatrick, Grahams of Monaghan
(Wavin) with Jerry Maher, DPL Group Ltd and Mark Mick Monahan, Chadwicks Naas with Mark with Mark Filgate, Chairman Octabuild.
Filgate, Chairman Octabuild (Delux Paints Ireland). Filgate, Chairman Octabuild.
Excellence in Sales & Marketing winner Excellence in Sustainable Business Excellence in Community Outreach
Michael Ganly, Ganly’s Athlone with Mark winner winner
Filgate, Chairman Octabuild. Brian Ganly, Ganly’s Longford with Mark Filgate, Joe Wallace, Wallace’s Homevalue, Wellingtonbridge
Chairman Octabuild. with Mark Filgate, Chairman Octabuild.
Rising Stars finalists Rising Star winner Connacht & Ulster Regional Award
Rising Stars with Mark Filgate, Chairman Winner Ross Fagan, Chadwicks, Lucan (centre) winner
Octabuild (front centre) L-R William Hanlon, with Mark Filgate, Chairman Octabuild (left) and Michael Ganly, Ganly’s Athlone with Mark
Murdock Builders Merchants, Kilbarrack; Tommy Patrick Atkinson, CEO, Chadwicks Group. Filgate, Chairman Octabuild.
Nolan, Topline Clearys Hardware, Carrick-
on-Suir; Joe Geraghty, Joyce’s Hardware &
Home, Headford; Damian Barnwall, Chadwicks,
Navan; Patrick Burke, Joyce’s Hardware &
Home, Headford; Brendan Cassidy, Heiton
Buckley, Castlebar; Padraig Daniels, Morris
Builders Providers, Waterford; Senan
Duignan, TJ O’Mahony, Ballymount; Brian
McPartland, McMahon’s Builders Providers,
Limerick; Ciara Roche, Wallace’s Homevalue,
Wellingtonbridge; Fergus O’Neill, Cork
Builders Providers, Togher; Ross Fagan,
Chadwicks, Lucan (WINNER); and Cormac
Wickenden, Brooks Timber and Building
Munster Regional Award winner Octabuild Supporting Irish Award,
Supplies, Galway.
Dan Twomey, Cork Builders Providers with Mark sponsored by Guaranteed Irish
Filgate, Chairman Octabuild. Bríd O’Connell, CEO Guaranteed Irish, Dan
Twomey, Cork Builders Providers and Mark
Filgate, Chairman Octabuild.
November/December 2019
9
News & Products
grAftON
MErChANtiNg
rOi rEBrANDs tO
ChADWiCks grOUP
Grafton Merchanting ROI have announced it is rebranding to
Chadwicks Group as part of a ¤5m investment programme in the migration of all financial and product administration information
business. for customers to a centralised ERP system, meaning customers
This investment over the next three years includes a nationwide will have access to their credit from any of its 50 locations
rebrand, in-branch refurbishments and a technology upgrade to nationwide. This change in process will allow customers to
enhance the overall customer experience. All Heiton Buckley shop in any of the 50 Chadwicks Group branches at any time
branches will move to the Chadwicks brand. Refurbishment and and receive one centralised statement every month, providing
rebrand activity is expected to be completed by March 2020. consistency in pricing and an easier administration process.
Destination brands where there is a unique area of speciality Chadwicks Group is also investing in its branches across the
within the Chadwicks Group will retain their current brand name. country as part of an ongoing refurbishment programme. The
These include: new-look Chadwicks Group branches will house the latest
styles and top brands on the market. New shelving, flooring,
UÊ iÌÊ-ÌiiÊqÊëiV>Ã}ÊÊÃÌii signage, counters and layout have all been installed, allowing
UÊ / iÊ*>i}Ê iÌÀiÊqÊëiV>Ã}ÊÊÌV ià customers to have a more hands-on experience with products.
UÊ >ÛiÃÊqÊëiV>Ã}ÊÊ«ÕL}Ê>`ÊVÛà The renovations roll-out commenced in summer 2018 and will
UÊ /ivÀ`ÃÊqÊVÕ`iÃÊ>ÊVÃÕiÀv>V}ÊvviÀ}ÊVÕ`}Ê be completed by March 2020. To date, seven branches have
white goods undergone a refurbishment and eight more branches are planned
UÊ ÀÊ Õ`iÀÃÊ*ÀÛ`iÀÃÊqÊ >ÃÊ>ÊÕµÕiÊLÀ>`ÊiµÕÌÞÊÊÌ iÊ to be revamped by the end of 2019.
south of Ireland Speaking on the announcement, Patrick Atkinson, CEO of
Chadwicks Group, said: “The launch of the Chadwicks Group
As part of the overall investment, Chadwicks Group is investing in Ireland marks a significant day in our company history. This
in its technology systems to improve overall customer significant investment in our brand and technology over the next
experience and create a more seamless user experience to make three years will provide our customers with a new and enhanced
life easier for its customers. The first step in this overhaul is the user experience across all 50 Chadwicks Group branches.”
DryliNiNg JUst gOt strONgEr
The backbone to drylining just got stronger as Gyproc announces stud engage firmly in
several improvements to its Gypframe product range. the track – it ‘snaps’
Gyproc continually looks to innovate, bringing improved into place and stays
performance and installation to all of their products and systems. there.
Their new generation of Gypframe ‘C’ Studs and tracks, launched The new metal
in 2018, represent the next stage in their evolution, making the is completely
backbone to drylining stronger. compatible with all
A large part of the Gypframe product range has already been existing Gypframe
upgraded, with the following products recently changing over to products and also has
this new generation of Gypframe: prominent branding for rapid identification on-site and in-store.
UÊ ÓÊ-ÊxäÊÃÌÕ`à As with all Gyproc products, resellers and installers can
UÊ {Ê ÊxäÊV >i access expert technical guidance about Gypframe through the
company’s experienced technical team and readily available
What’s changed? product literature. Gyproc can support customers either on-site,
The stud leg length has been increased by 5mm to give a bigger via telephone or through its range of online tools and resources.
target for board fixing, making installation on-site easier. For The company also offers a diverse range of free and paid-for
added rigidity, especially on the legs, the corners have been training courses in various drylining disciplines to help resellers
embossed - this reduces the effect of twisting and moving up-skill their staff teams.
as the board is fixed in place, making installation quicker and Gyproc has over 80 years of experience in developing products in
easier, whilst also providing a stronger wall with significantly less the interior lining sector and is continually developing its range to
deflection. provide market-leading performance. For more information about
The dimensional changes and increased rigidity also help the Gypframe products please visit: www.gyproc.ie
November/December 2019
10Go beyond your expectations with SMARTPLY ULTIMA.
Let’s do the right thing!
SMARTPLY ULTIMA is a high-performance OSB4 panel Manufactured using state-of-the-art technology, it is free from
designed for the most demanding structural applications added formaldehyde. From a reliable resource of sustainable
within construction. Possibilities are now even greater, with an timber, it offers the ultimate sustainability credentials compared
engineered panel that offers enhanced moisture resistance and to alternative specifications. When you need a high performance,
increased strength when compared to other typical structural sustainable structural panel solution – do the right thing with
panel solutions. SMARTPLY ULTIMA.
To find out how we are setting new standards in timber panel engineering,
go to www.mdfosb.com/ultimaNews & Products
thE sigNAtUrE
COllECtiON By
DUlUX
The Signature Collection by Dulux has been carefully designed to make it easier
for consumers to select beautiful colour combinations, creating a refined designer
led colour scheme throughout the home. The collection brings together years of
professional colour expertise and design know-how in a collaboration with architect and
interior designer Denise O’Connor.
The collection features neutrals in families of trios, with each sibling related to the other.
For a contemporary yet moody effect, encourage your customer to opt for Signature’s
dark neutrals including Denise’s favourites Typography, Night Series and Fine Line.
Deceptive in its name, white can easily fool the eye, so Denise has simplified white by
featuring three classics. A contemporary white, Urban White features cool undertones,
while Easel White is a warm white with naturally warm undertones, ideal for use
alongside a warm neutral. The versatile Signature White serves as a classically diverse
white which clearly sits between the two.
Your customer can make a statement by choosing one of Signature’s twelve fun and
vibrant accent colours designed to help them make an impact such as Okra, Russian
Doll and Serendipity.
The customer simply picks a colour, then a finish whether it be for walls, doors or
windows. Those looking for a hardwearing long-lasting finish can choose Diamond Matt
or Diamond Eggshell finishes for their longevity.
www.dulux.ie/en/articles/signature-collection
hEAt MErChANts sElECtED As
PlUMBErs` MErChANt Of thE yEAr
Heat Merchants was named Overall Plumbers’ Merchant of the
Year at Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Awards during a recent
ceremony in Dublin.
The judges said “Despite their size Heat Merchants is still able
to deliver a very personal and professional service, making sure
the customer is always satisfied”.
Heat Merchants, the Irish owned company with 32 branches
nationwide, has been supplying the heating and plumbing trade
for over 40 years and in recent years has expanded its offering
to provide a range of technical design services including design
and specification of heating and plumbing systems, ancillary
certification, commissioning, after sales services and technical
support. Heat Merchants also offer training across their range
including the installation of their range of air to water heat
pumps by Panasonic.
Alan Hogan, Managing Director of Heat Merchants Group,
commented “We are delighted to have received this award
for the second time in a row and I want to congratulate my
colleagues on this exceptional achievement and thank all our Ray McClay, Worcester presenting the award for Overall Merchant of
customers, suppliers and friends for their support and loyalty”. the Year to Alan Hogan, MD of Heat Merchants Group.
November/December 2019
12For speed of installation and a precision finish,
choose SMARTPLY PATTRESS PLUS.
Let’s do the right thing!
SMARTPLY PATTRESS PLUS is a pre-cut, pre-rebated OSB3 board for SMARTPLY PATTRESS PLUS is produced with zero added
use in ‘C’ shaped metal studs in the construction of partitions where formaldehyde and using fully certified timber from our own
secure anchorage for fixtures and fittings is required. A range of sizes forests, this combined with its speed and ease of use, makes it the
is available to suit both 400mm and 600mm stud centres. perfect alternative for plywood for use in pattressing – do the
right thing with PATTRESS PLUS.
These ready prepared modular panels greatly speed up installation
time as no cutting is required on site, meaning less dust, less noise
and a reduced need for dangerous power tools.
To find out how we are setting new standards in timber panel engineering,
go to www.mdfosb.com/pattress-plusNews & Products
fiVE-stAr
stOrEs At
thE UNitED iN
EXCEllENCE
AWArDs
The second United In Excellence Patrick Cassidy, Group CEO, United Hardware said, “The
United In Excellence Awards recognise and celebrate best in
Awards, recently held in the Five- class offerings, standards and customer service across the
industry.
Star Heritage Hotel in Killenard, Co.
Laois, honoured several hardware and Our winning members have significantly raised the bar when
it comes to excellence in retailing and merchanting and
builder merchant stores from across have proven that they are the very best hardware stores in
the country for achieving exceptional Ireland.”
Rooney’s Homevalue in Kells won the highly coveted title
standards in DIY, hardware and of United In Excellence Store Of The Year 2019, surpassing
competition from over 150 member stores across the
merchanting retailing. country.
The awards ceremony was hosted by United Hardware,
Television and radio presenter Hector Ó hEochagáin
who operate and supply the Homevalue retail brand on
presented the awards ceremony along with live dance
behalf of its members who together have over 150 stores
performances, making it a night of great entertainment for
across Ireland catering to a diverse base of trade and DIY
all involved. The event was sponsored by Crown Paints, CPL
customers.
Fuels, Irish Cement, Xtratherm and Glennon Brothers.
Over 25 awards were handed out across various categories
On the night ¤5,500 was also raised for United Hardware’s
such as best paint store, excellence in customer service, best
chosen charity, the Capuchin Day Centre for Homeless
light hardware & DIY, best merchanting and best regional
People.
store, as well as regional awards in each category.
As part of the nomination process, every member store
across the network had to comply with a store standards
audit process, to ensure that the highest possible standards
were upheld throughout. This involved an assessment by
United Hardware’s Store Operations Division, which also
included two independent mystery shopper audits by their
external partners.
November/December 2019
14News & Products
Raising ¤5,500 For The Capuchin Day
Centre For Homeless People
Pictured: Brother Kevin from The Capuchin Day Centre
& Patrick Cassidy from United Hardware.
Store Of The Year 2019
Pictured: Paul Candon & Patrick Cassidy from United Hardware, Brendan, Anne-Marie & Cathleen
Rooney from Rooney’s Homevalue, Clarke Blair from Crown Paints and Hector Ó hEochagáin.
Best Regional Store In Ulster Best Regional Store In Munster
Pictured: Hector, Martin McGowan & Lee Whittington from Donegal Town Pictured: Hector, Paul Flynn from Flynn’s Homevalue and Ray Molyneaux
Hardware Homevalue and Ray Molyneaux from Irish Cement. from Irish Cement.
Best Regional Store In Leinster Best Regional Store In Connacht
Pictured: Hector, Anne-Marie, Brendan & Cathleen Rooney from Rooney’s Pictured: Hector, Nicholas & Ailish O’ Connor from Nicolas O’ Conchubhair Teo
Homevalue and Ray Molyneaux from Irish Cement. Homevalue and Ray Molyneaux from Irish Cement.
November/December 2019
15News & Products
MEDitE sMArtPly COMPlEtEs irish rOAD triP
MEDITE SMARTPLY, well known manufacturer of innovative MDF builders’ merchants across Ireland. While being served breakfast
and OSB wood panels, has finally finished its tour of its home rolls and refreshments, tradespeople had the opportunity of
market of Ireland. chatting to a product expert.
Part of Coillte, the large local employer embarked on the tour in Devin continued: “Engaging face to face meant that we were able
September 2019 when the unmistakable aqua coloured MEDITE to ask our customers directly, what challenges do you face every
SMARTPLY van landed in Dublin to start its two-month journey. day, or what would you like to improve about a particular process?
Now, having visited over 40 locations across Ireland, Devin “Some notable feedback we got was that many people would like
Fallon, Technical Sales Manager at the company, reflects on the to be able to save time while installing site hoarding. We have a
journey: “The tour was intended to enable MEDITE SMARTPLY solution to that! Introducing visitors to SMARTPLY SITEPROTECT,
to strengthen relationships with its local customer bases and they were very impressed to find a strong and durable site
building contractors, to engage with them directly and it was hoarding panel that comes pre-primed, saving both time and
extremely well received throughout. money. We were delighted to have provided a practical solution!”
“Our overall impression has been that although our customers are Attendees also had the opportunity to take part in games and
aware of the MEDITE SMARTPLY brand, it has been extremely competitions for chances to win prizes on the day.
valuable to make contact face to face with tradespeople, to be Fostering an ethos of sustainability within the timber industry
able to clearly get to grips with our large range of products and and of positively developing higher quality standards in the Irish
how they solve problems for day to day work challenges.” construction industry, MEDITE SMARPTLY is a sustainable timber
It’s important to us, now as it has always been, to understand our panel manufacturer, only using timber from responsibly managed
customers’ needs and the issues they face, and to work towards forests right here in Ireland.
proactive solutions with them.”
The tour brought a wide range of industry leading products, many For more on MEDITE SMARTPLY and all products available,
newly launched in 2019, to specialist timber distributors and visit: mdfosb.com
triPlE sUCCEss
fOr grANt With
lEADiNg CONsUMEr
BODy WhiCh?
Leading Irish heating technology manufacturer Grant has
received a Which? Best Buy for its range of Grant Vortex Pro
Utility oil boilers. This is the third year running that the company
has received the award making Grant the only oil boiler brand in
Ireland and the UK to be awarded Which? Best Buy awards in
2017, 2018 and 2019. The recognition further reinforces Grant’s
position amongst the world’s best-known home appliance brands.
As a widely recognised endorsement that reflects confidence, Grant Engineering, Managing Director, Stephen Grant and Director, Niall Fay.
trust and reliability in products, the Which? Best Buy logo plays
an important role in the decision-making process for homeowners homes throughout Ireland for over 40 years and its extensive
researching new appliances for their home. The results of the product portfolio, which includes the popular range of Vortex
latest Which? Oil Boiler Survey once again acknowledged the condensing oil boilers and the Aerona3 R32 air source heat pump
excellent build, reliability and performance qualities that have range has diversified in recent years. Included now are pre-
become synonymous with Grant boilers. These qualities help plumbed hot water cylinders and modern heat emitters including
homeowners achieve maximum home heating efficiencies and in Uflex underfloor heating, the Afinia aluminium radiator range
turn reduce their fuel bills which makes these models within the and Solo fan convector radiator range. The ranges offer variety
Vortex range the ideal replacements for older oil-fired boilers. and versatility to fully meet the needs of both homeowners and
Grant Founder, Stephen Grant commented, “We are very proud installers.
to receive this recognition from Which? for the third consecutive Stephen added, “As a company we are committed to developing
year. The continued recognition from Which? reinforces the new and innovative heating solutions for our customers to ensure
excellent standards to which we develop our products and they can benefit from the most efficient and reliable heating
reinforces our position at the forefront of the home heating solutions on the market that deliver real value for money.”
industry in both the UK and Ireland.”
Grant has been providing innovative heating technologies to For more details please visit www.grant.eu
November/December 2019
16News & Products
shiNiNg A light
John Stafford and Sons Ltd. are delighted to announce the Stafford`s new 2020 Gardening and Tool catalogue will be
arrival of COB LED lighting by Hilka to the Irish market. They available soon and you can contact them at 053 9367246 or
have been proud distributors of the Hilka brand in Ireland for visit www.stafford.ie
over 30 years. Hilka Tools are one of the UK’s most identifiable
brands when it comes to supplying innovative yet affordable
tools and hardware to the trade and DIY enthusiast. Stafford`s
offer a range of different lighting equipment for a variety of
purposes such as torches, headlamps, inspection lights, pen
work lights and hazard lights. Most of their lighting contains
the very latest Chip on Board (COB) technology that emits a
stronger illumination than conventional LED technology.
Chip on Board delivers better light distribution offering wide-
area light emitters, which makes it an ideal product for work
areas. The main difference between COB LED and LED comes
down to how they are designed. COB LEDs fit more LEDs on
to a single chip, by doing so it allows a higher intensity of light
and lower power consumption.
This is evident in the powerful 3W COB 120 lumens Clip light
with chip on board (COB) technology which is ideal for boating,
camping, household, car maintenance and workshop use.
The compact and versatile design with a magnetic back and
hanging hook is also rubber coated for added protection.
BEHOLD WITNESS MARVEL
a pipe that uncoils without a twist a manoeuvreablity that give you a at a more FLEXIBLE pipe that gives
enableling a lay-FLAT capability FAST more cost-effective installation you the edge over the competition
Pipelife Ireland Limited, White’s Cross, Cork.
Phone: +353 21 488-4700 Email: ireland@pipelife.com | www.pipelife.ie
November/December 2019
17News & Products
CONsUMErs ENCOUrAgED
tO hAVE A “lightBUlB
MOMENt”
WEEE Ireland have published findings that 3.2 million
lightbulbs were recycled in 2018, despite an estimated 10
million being sold in Ireland in the same period. WEEE Ireland
is calling on Irish consumers to “Have a Lightbulb Moment”
and recycle their compact fluorescent (CFL) lightbulbs.
Recent research commissioned by WEEE Ireland highlights
that almost 40% Irish adults still dispose of used lightbulbs
in their general waste, despite the current era of heightened
environmental awareness. As part of WEEE Ireland’s Small
Things Matter campaign, they are reminding householders that
energy saving lightbulbs, fluorescent tubes and their fittings
can be recycled, and it is free, easy and local to do!
Commenting on the findings, Leo Donovan, CEO of WEEE
Ireland said “Many people are making the change to LEDs
for their home lighting. While Ireland is excellent at recycling Irish householders and small businesses can recycle their
waste household electrical goods and batteries, it is clear that waste lightbulbs free of charge in a number of convenient
when it comes to what to do with our old lightbulbs, we are ways:
still in the dark. Particularly surprising is the number of young
people who don’t recycle their lightbulbs - over a third of 18-24 UÊ ÞÊÀiÌÕÀ}ÊÌ iÊÌÊÌ iÀÊV>Ê >À`Ü>ÀiÊÃÌÀi
year-olds dispose of them in with their general rubbish, despite UÊ ÞÊÀiÌÕÀ}ÊÌ iÊÌÊÌ iÀÊV>Ê} Ì}ÊÃÌÀi
e-waste recycling being free and easy to do.” UÊ ÞÊ>Ã}ÊÌ iÀÊ} Ì}ÊÃÌ>iÀÊÌÊÀiÌÕÀÊÜ>ÃÌiÊ} ÌLÕLÃÊ
Jim Copeland, Head of Member Relations for Hardware and lighting equipment to their wholesaler
Association Ireland says “Batteries are the most commonly- UÊ ÞÊLÀ}}ÊÌ iÊÌÊÌ iÀÊi>ÀiÃÌÊV>Ê>ÕÌ ÀÌÞÊÀiVÞV}Ê
recycled small electrical item in Ireland, with a collection point centre
in almost every shop. We now want people to also associate
their local hardware or lighting store with recycling their waste Leo Donovan is keen to point out electronic waste is recycled
lightbulbs in the same way.” here in Ireland too “We are very proud that 100% of waste
Recycling lighting and electrical waste benefits the environment, lighting equipment returned is recycled here in Ireland, at our
allowing plastics, metals and glass to be recovered for WEEElabex Certified partners Irish Lamp Recycling, Athy, Co.
further use in manufacturing and ensuring hazardous waste Kildare.”
is disposed of safely. Waste CFL lightbulbs may contain a Hardware Stores and Lighting Stores can order free WEEE
small amount of mercury vapour or metal dust, making them Ireland Lighting, WEEE and Battery recycling boxes by calling
unsuitable for disposal in general household waste. 1890 253 252 or at www.weeeireland.ie
Business Management Software
for Merchants and Wholesalers
Merchant is affordable, flexible and simple to use
Product & price management Integrated ledger accounting
Flexible sales functionality Trade & consumer e-commerce
Purchasing & stock control Price & availability lookup
For more information contact us on 016260155 www.rnh.ie/merchant
November/December 2019
18News & Products
APhiX sOftWArE sEt tO BUilD ON
BEst B2B ECOMMErCE AWArD
Aphix Software has been named as the Best B2B eCommerce their award win. Aphix provides their enhanced online ordering
Solution at the inaugural eCommerce & Payment Awards ceremony portal to our group members, which integrates seamlessly with
which took place recently at the Ballsbridge Hotel in Dublin. our ERP system. They’ve delivered on that as promised and in
The award was in recognition of the Aphix cloud-based partnership with them we have opened up exciting e-commerce
eCommerce platform which is used by companies in the hardware possibilities for us and our members which are currently being
and building materials trade including United Hardware, Clondalkin, deployed.”
Blackrock and Newtown Builders Providers. Dwayne Holt, General Manager of Clondalkin Builders Providers
The judges lavished much praise on Aphix for their innovative also added “Congratulations to Aphix on their recent award
solution which offers builders providers a complete omnichannel win. The team at Aphix have been instrumental in allowing
solution for selling their products online (using B2B websites and our organisation to provide our customers with a practical and
trade portals) as well as on global marketplaces such as Amazon, seamless eCommerce solution for our B2B customers.”
Facebook, Instagram and Google all of which fully integrate with Aphix CEO Graham O’Rourke was delighted with the award and
the Aphix platform. added, “This award means so much to the team at Aphix and we
The eCommerce and mobile app platform which integrates with are delighted to receive it in its first year.
and is fully certified by SAP B1, Sage & Intact ERPs, has been Adding this award to being chosen last month as one of the
experiencing high growth over the last few years and Aphix is ‘Top 10 eCommerce Solution Providers in the UK for 2019’ is
currently on track to deliver another record-breaking year for new amazing for us and it’s proof that we are being recognised as a
business in Ireland and globally. go-to provider of ERP integrated eCommerce solutions not only in
Congratulations rolled in from across the hardware trade with Ireland but also in the UK.”
United Hardware’s Finance Manager Emmet Walsh commenting
“On behalf of United Hardware, I want to congratulate Aphix on For more information visit www.aphixsoftware.com
NOW AS EASY
TO CHOOSE AS
IT IS TO USE.
For every repair trust quick setting,
multi-purpose Jetcem.
Visit sika.ie/distribution for the
full product range.
p3812_everbuild_jetcem_campaign_hardware_journal _130x180mm_aw.indd 1 15/10/2019 16:40
November/December 2019
19News & Products
EXPErt hArDWArE r
AWArDs WiNNErs AN
The 2019 Expert Hardware Retail Awards were held in the Member Purchasing Commitment with Preferred Suppliers
Mullingar Park Hotel in early October and the very best stores Award
in hardware retail throughout the country were recognised for McGuire’s Expert Hardware, Rosslare.
achieving the highest standards and excellence in customer Sponsored by ECC Teo
service.
Outstanding Sales Observation Award
As part of the awards process, each of the Expert Hardware Carmel Masterson
stores were accessed by two independent judges with a strict Slowey’s Expert Hardware, Ballyjamesduff.
set of criteria which ensures that the highest standards in all Sponsored by Reisser
aspects of hardware retail is continually sustained.
Highly Commended Expert Hardware Internal Branding Award
“These awards have facilitated increased levels of best Goulding’s Expert Hardware, Naas.
practice retail standards across the group since they started Sponsored by Timco
just four years ago. The cutting edge templates are now an
integral part of our store management procedures and the very Best Expert Hardware Internal Branding Award
detailed reports have been presented back to each store” said Daly’s Expert Hardware, Waterville.
David Baker, Chairman of the Expert Hardware Group. Sponsored by Arc Building Products
There were 15 awards presented on the night across different Highly Commended Expert Hardware External Branding Award
sectors and the three top store awards went to Declan Byrne Hammel’s Expert Hardware, Kilmuckridge.
& Sons Carlow, O’Reilly Expert Hardware Wicklow and Kells Sponsored by John Murphy Castlerea
Expert Hardware. Other awards winners were; Kennedy’s
Ballyconnell, Trim Hardware, O’Gorman’s Carrickmacross, Best Expert Hardware External Branding Award
McGuire’s Rosslare, Slowey’s Ballyjamesduff, Goulding’s Naas, J & P Ward Expert Hardware, Ballybay.
Daly’s Waterville, Hammel’s Kilmuckridge, J & P Ward Ballybay, Sponsored by Calor Gas
Expert Hardware Rathmines, Maloney’s Shannon and Clarkes
of Bailieborough. Highly Commended Expert Hardware Small Store Award
Expert Hardware Rathmines.
“We are delighted to reward the very best hardware retailers Sponsored by Burke Bros
who have shown commitment in meeting and exceeding
the highest standards. As a group, we always strive to Highly Commended Expert Hardware Medium Store Award
innovate and find new platforms to give our loyal customer Maloney’s Expert Hardware, Shannon.
base exceptional standards of service. We are very grateful Sponsored by Contech
to our valued sponsors and in particular to our main sponsor,
Fleetwood Paints who all recognise the benefits of showcasing Highly Commended Expert Hardware Large Store Award
best in class retail stores” said Gerry Fallon, CEO Expert Clarke’s Of Bailieborough.
Hardware Group. Sponsored by Tucks O’Brien
Expert Hardware 2019 AWARDS & WINNERS Best Expert Hardware Small Store Award
Kells Expert Hardware.
Preferred Supplier Turnover Growth Award Sponsored by Fleetwood Paints
Kennedy’s Expert Hardware, Ballyconnell.
Sponsored by Expert Hardware Best Expert Hardware Medium Store Award
O’Reilly Expert Hardware, Wicklow.
Expert Hardware Store with Most Potential Awards (2 awards) Sponsored by Fleetwood Paints
Trim Expert Hardware.
O’Gorman’s Expert Hardware, Carrickmacross. Best Expert Hardware Large Store Award
Sponsored by Expert Hardware D Byrne & Sons Expert Hardware, Carlow.
Sponsored by Fleetwood Paints
November/December 2019
20News & Products
EtAil
NOUNCED
BEST EXPERT HARDWARE LARGE STORE WINNER BEST EXPERT HARDWARE MEDIUM STORE WINNER
D Byrnes & Sons Carlow O’Reilly Expert Hardware Wicklow
From Left to Right; Danny, Declan, Brendan Byrne Carlow & Paul Byrne From Left to Right; Barry O’Reilly Wicklow, Paul Byrne Fleetwood Paints
Fleetwood Paints
BEST EXPERT HARDWARE SMALL STORE WINNER OPENING CEREMONY
Kells Expert Hardware David Baker
From Left to Right; Paul Byrne Fleetwood Paints, Catriona & Eamon Chairman Expert Hardware Group
McCormack Kells
AWARD WINNERS & SPONSORS EXPERT HARDWARE HEAD OFFICE
From Left to Right; Gerry Fallon CEO, Eddie Devine Expert Business
Development Manager, Brent Pope Expert Brand Ambassador, Lisa Donohoe
Expert Accounts & Office Administrator
November/December 2019
21News & Products
EJ OffiCiAlly OPENs Speaking at the event, Padraig Freeman, Vice President of EJ
said “Investing in our Irish facility allows us to serve local and
its COMPOsitE European market needs from Birr. It demonstrates not only our
commitment to Ireland but to our wider European customers.
We are now exporting high performance composite access
MANUfACtUriNg sitE solutions to several European markets. IDA’s support enabled
us strengthen our offering and diversify our production facility.”
EJ can now provide lightweight composite covers, in a range of
EJ, a fifth generation family-owned company headquartered in colours to meet the requirements of EN124:2015.
Michigan, USA, have just recently celebrated the official opening
of its new production facility in Birr, Co. Offaly. The company has
operated this world class facility on its two-hectare site in Birr
since June of last year.
EJ provides a full line of access solutions for the infrastructure
systems of municipalities, utility companies, airport & port
authorities, and private industries. In addition to traditional
materials of grey or ductile cast iron, a continuously expanding
array of innovative solutions are offered in composites,
fabricated steel and aluminium. EJ supplies products world-
wide to infrastructure projects in six continents.
The facility was officially opened by Dr. Norah Patten, a leading
Irish engineer who is bidding to become Ireland’s first-ever
astronaut. She is an award-winning STEM advocate and is a
faculty member at the International Space University.
EJ also announced the launch of their new range of access L-R Dr. Norah Patten, Scientist-Astronaut Candidate pictured with the
covers, manufactured from lightweight composite materials. President of EJ, Tracy Malpass.
sOliD fUEl CArBON tAX iNCrEAsE DElAyED
In Budget 2020, Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe announced issues in 2018.
a ¤6 increase in the price of carbon as a first step towards the Increases in carbon tax on solid fuel also have unintended costly
Government’s commitment to increasing the price of carbon from consequences for the environment and Ireland’s international
¤20 to ¤80 per tonne by 2030. The increase was applied immediately carbon reduction commitments. Higher solid fuel prices lead many
on auto fuels but the increase to home heating oil and solid fuels will consumers to source their solid fuel from ‘grey’ markets where
be delayed until May 2020 - after the winter heating season. The Solid they purchase more environmentally harmful products, such as sod
Fuel Trade Group (SFTG) whose members account for two thirds of turf and wet wood, increasing particulate emissions and paying no
the carbon tax paid on solid fuel had called for a derrogation for solid carbon tax or VAT.
fuel or at least a delay in the implementation of any tax increase. There is no carbon tax in Northern Ireland and VAT is charged at 5%
Roughly one home in eight or 600,000 people in Ireland depend on versus 13.5% in the Republic of Ireland. This has led to significant
solid fuel as their primary form of home heat. The majority of these price distortions and increasing pressure on wholesale and retail
homes are in rural areas and many are classified as “fuel poor”. businesses.
Higher solid fuel prices lead to the most disadvantaged going cold SFTG have called on both Revenue and DCCAE to ensure that the
in their homes. St Vincent de Paul estimate that almost half (48%) trade in illicit, untaxed and higher polluting solid fuels is tackled to
of these homes went without home heating due to affordability protect both the environment and legitimate solid fuel businesses.
High performance composite ireland.sales@ejco.com
tel 057 91 23100
access solutions. ejco.com
New IDS ELITE. Made in Ireland.
The first fully certified lightweight
composite access covers for
Traffic Signals and Street Lighting
applications. In Ireland composite
covers are required to conform to
EN 124-5:2015.
November/December 2019
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